Cosmin Olăroiu officially presented at Al-Jazira. Romanian lands sixth Gulf club

Cosmin Olăroiu embarks on a new challenge in the United Arab Emirates, officially taking the helm as head coach of Al Jazira Club. The Abu Dhabi-based team announced the appointment on Saturday, confirming a contract that extends through 2028.

This move signifies Olăroiu's return to club management following his recent tenure with the UAE national team. He led the national squad from April 2025 to May 2026 but was dismissed after failing to qualify for the World Cup. Al Jazira becomes his sixth club in the Gulf region, a territory where he has achieved considerable success.

Throughout his career, the 57-year-old Romanian has managed several prominent Gulf clubs, including Al-Hilal, Al-Sadd, Al Ain, Shabab Al-Ahli, and Sharjah FC. He also had a brief spell as the coach of Saudi Arabia. Olăroiu is recognized as one of the most decorated coaches in the Gulf, having secured 13 trophies with his various teams.

Al Jazira finished fourth in the UAE league last season. The club boasts a history of three league titles, three UAE Cups, two League Cups, and one Super Cup. Their current squad is valued by Transfermarkt at 44 million euros, exceeding that of any team in the Romanian Superliga.

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We are delighted to announce the official signing of Romanian coach Cosmin Olăroiu as first team manager. The agreement is valid until 2028.